Breast Cancer Signs: 8 Changes to Check For (It Is Not Only a Lump)

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women worldwide. The World Health Organization reports about 2.3 million new cases and around 670,000 deaths in 2022. When it is found early, the chance of survival is much higher.

Picture a woman who checks her breasts every month in the shower. One day she notices dimpling she has never seen before. Because she knows her normal, she gets checked early, when treatment works best.

8 changes to look and feel for

1. A new lump or thickening in the breast or armpit
2. A change in the size or shape of one breast
3. Dimpling or puckering of the skin, like orange peel
4. A nipple that turns inwards or changes shape
5. Discharge from the nipple, especially if blood-stained
6. A rash, crusting or redness around the nipple
7. Swelling in the armpit or around the collarbone
8. Persistent pain in one part of the breast or armpit

How to check

• Look in the mirror with arms by your sides, then raised
• Feel each breast and armpit with flat fingers, using small circles, in the shower or lying down
• Check at the same time each month, for example a week after your period
• Most lumps are not cancer, but always get a new change checked

Screening

Many countries offer regular mammograms to women in certain age groups, often starting between 40 and 50. Ages and frequency differ, so ask your health service what is available.

Who is at higher risk?

• Getting older
• A strong family history or inherited gene changes such as BRCA1 or BRCA2
• Previous radiotherapy to the chest
• Alcohol, obesity after menopause, and physical inactivity

Men can get breast cancer too. Any lump or nipple change in a man should be checked.

“But I am young and there is no breast cancer in my family.”

Most women diagnosed with breast cancer have no family history, and it can occur at younger ages. Knowing what is normal for you and reporting changes matters at every age.

Source: World Health Organization breast cancer fact sheet; NHS and American Cancer Society breast awareness guidance.